D
Demelza
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At the time of writing we’re just days away from the release of the latest Persona game, Persona 5, so what better way to get into the mood than with the second movie adaptation of Persona 3? This movie might be subtitled Midsummer Knight’s Dream, but it certainly isn’t dreamy for our cast…
The second movie kicks off in style with Makoto Yuki and the SEES group battling a tough Shadow, and then promptly drops us into some summer- themed fun. The first half of the story sees the team going on a getaway to a nearby island for some time at the beach (yes, there are plenty of swimsuit shots). While on the island they also meet Mitsuru’s father, who reveals some important secrets about the history of the Shadows. With their history now clear and the news that the Dark Hour can be stopped by defeating twelve Arcana Shadows (some of which SEES have already defeated), the team resolve to bring an end to the nights of terror.
Musically there is little to complain about with this movie either. Composer Tetsuya Kobayashi continues to offer varied and emotional tracks that really fit the action or situations on-screen, and even away from the context of the movie, they’re memorable scores. The main theme song for this movie is “Fate is In Our Hands” performed by Lotus Juice, and is a quiet but emotional track that will also stick in your mind.
This release comes to the UK thanks to Anime Limited, who have brought out Persona 3 The Movie 2 on DVD and in a collector’s edition including both Blu-ray and DVD. The collector’s edition also includes a booklet. It’s worth noting that the movie is subbed only as no English dub for it exists.
Overall Persona 3 The Movie 2 feels like a bit of a stopgap between a brilliant starting point and better things to come in the future. It’s not bad by any means and the last 30 minutes are terrific, but I do wonder if we could have gotten away with cutting out some of the summer fluff. Still, a must-watch for Persona fans.
Quick Information
Title: Persona 3 The Movie #2 Midsummer Knight's Dream Collector's Edition
Publisher: Anime Limited
Genre: Action, Fantasy, Drama
Studio: A-1 Pictures
Type: Movie
Original vintage: 2014
Format: Blu-Ray and DVD (Blu-Ray version reviewed)
Language options: Japanese audio with English subtitles
Age rating: 15
Running time in minutes: 93
Score (out of 10): 7
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